World Tourism Day 2024: best places for winter

As World Tourism Day is celebrated on September 27, it’s the perfect time to start planning your winter getaway. Winter offers unique travel experiences, from snowy wonderlands to tropical escapes, depending on your preference for snow-capped mountains or warm beaches. Here are some of the best places for winter travel to inspire your next adventure:

1. Switzerland

• Why Visit: Switzerland is a winter wonderland, famous for its stunning Alps, luxury ski resorts, and picturesque villages. Popular destinations include Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Interlaken, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and cozy evenings by the fireplace.
• Must-Do: Take the Glacier Express train through snow-covered landscapes or enjoy fondue in a mountain chalet.

2. Iceland

• Why Visit: Iceland offers a magical winter experience with opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, soak in the famous Blue Lagoon, and explore breathtaking ice caves. Its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs make it a perfect winter escape.
• Must-Do: Visit Reykjavík and take a tour of the Golden Circle to see Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir.

3. Japan (Hokkaido)

• Why Visit: Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido is famous for its deep powder snow, making it a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. It also hosts beautiful winter festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival with intricate snow sculptures. The hot springs or onsen are perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
• Must-Do: Ski at Niseko, known for some of the best powder snow in the world, and explore Otaru, a charming canal city.

4. Austria

• Why Visit: Austria is renowned for its quaint alpine villages and top-tier ski resorts like Kitzbühel and Innsbruck. The country also boasts festive Christmas markets in cities like Vienna and Salzburg, where you can enjoy mulled wine and holiday treats.
• Must-Do: Explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg or visit the historic Vienna Christmas Market.

5. Canada (Banff, Alberta)

• Why Visit: Banff in the Canadian Rockies is a dream destination for winter lovers. Surrounded by towering mountains and frozen lakes, it’s ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing. The famous Lake Louise turns into a frozen paradise, perfect for ice skating.
• Must-Do: Take the Banff Gondola for panoramic views or relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

6. Finland (Lapland)

• Why Visit: Lapland in northern Finland is known as the home of Santa Claus and offers enchanting experiences like reindeer sledding, meeting Santa, and staying in glass igloos to watch the Northern Lights. The snowy wilderness is perfect for husky safaris and snowmobile rides.
• Must-Do: Visit Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, and explore the Arctic SnowHotel.

7. New Zealand (Queenstown)

• Why Visit: For those seeking a warm-weather winter escape, New Zealand’s Queenstown offers mild temperatures and thrilling activities. It’s known as the adventure capital, with opportunities for bungee jumping, hiking, and jet boating. It’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, making it a great getaway for winter.
• Must-Do: Take a scenic cruise on Milford Sound or hike along the Routeburn Track.

8. Morocco

• Why Visit: Morocco is an exotic winter destination with pleasant temperatures, rich culture, and vibrant cities like Marrakech and Fes. You can experience the beauty of the Sahara Desert, stay in luxury desert camps, or trek through the Atlas Mountains.
• Must-Do: Ride a camel through the Sahara Desert or explore the bustling souks of Marrakech.

9. Norway

• Why Visit: Norway is one of the best destinations to experience the Northern Lights, particularly in Tromsø and Lofoten Islands. The country also offers unique winter activities like dog sledding and whale watching. Its scenic fjords and charming coastal towns are particularly stunning in winter.
• Must-Do: Stay in an ice hotel or take a fjord cruise for breathtaking views of snow-covered landscapes.

10. Maldives

• Why Visit: For a tropical winter escape, the Maldives is a perfect choice with its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and luxury overwater villas. It’s a great destination for relaxing, snorkeling, and diving in the Indian Ocean.
• Must-Do: Stay in an overwater bungalow and enjoy a sunset cruise in the Maldives’ turquoise waters.